Càrn Dearg Mòr

The walk up Càrn Dearg Mòr rewards you with one of the Cairngorms' most satisfying viewpoints, even if the peak itself isn't the most dramatic around Aviemore. It's a proper hill rather than a mountain - about 1,400 metres - which means families and casual walkers can manage it without needing crampons or mountaineering experience.

The approach is straightforward enough. Most people start from the Lairig Ghru path or head up from the southern side, and it's roughly a three-hour round trip depending on fitness. The terrain's a mix of heather, grass, and rocky sections. Nothing too technical, but your legs will know about it.

What makes it worth the effort is the view south across the Spey Valley towards Aviemore and beyond. On a clear day - and you need to pick your weather carefully - you're looking at the Monadhliath Mountains rolling away, with Strathspey laid out beneath you. The top itself is a cairn, nothing fancy, but the perspective is genuinely impressive.

Walkers and hill enthusiasts will get the most from this one. Kids aged ten and up can do it fine, though younger ones might find the sustained gradient a slog. It's free, obviously - it's a Scottish mountain.

If you're staying at Dalraddy Holiday Park near Alvie, this makes an ideal morning walk before heading back for lunch. Combine it with other Cairngorms routes and you've got a proper walking holiday. Go in May through September when the weather's more predictable.